ST. MARTINVILLE, LA MARDI GRAS HEAD QUARTERS !
Since 1959, Empowering Community Through Purpose & Pride
“We were the only, but never the last Black women united by faith, purpose, and a promise to serve our community with dignity, joy, and strength.”
Founded in 1959 in the heart of St. Martinville, Louisiana, the Newcomers Social Club began as a powerful force for unity, service, and celebration. Under the bold leadership of Louversa Aubrey, ten visionary women formed the region’s first Black social club, committed to strengthening the civic and spiritual fabric of the St. Martin Parish community.
A LEGACY ROOTED IN SERVICE, UNITY, CELEBRATION
OUR MISSION
promote and extend the objects of Christianity.
The residential poor and needy
and carrying on various charitable activities, and projects.
or participate in legitimate activities, for the raising of money to effectuate the community projects.
1964: The Newcomers officially chartered at 800 Washington Street
Annual Pageant & Parade: Held the weekend before Fat Tuesday, featuring royalty, floats, music, and memories
The 1960s marked the birth of a legacy and the beginning of Mardi Gras magic.
Through strategic community planning, the club began organizing the annual Mardi Gras Parade and Pageant that would become a cherished tradition in St. Martinville. Our event quickly became a vibrant fusion of Black heritage, family celebration, and cultural pride, with deep ties to churches, civic leaders, and even white community supporters.
